Magners League: Round 14 Preview

The countdown to the end of the Magners League season could start in earnest this weekend with Saturday's top of the table clash at Stradey Park when leaders Leinster face the second-placed Llanelli Scarlets.

This game can be classed as a real 'ten pointer', with Leinster either extending their considerable lead, or seeing their rivals for the title start chasing them down.

There is a similar swing of fortunes in prospect at Murrayfield where fourth plays fifth when Cardiff Blues travel to the capital city to face Edinburgh on Friday night. A win is vital for the home side if they are to continue their recent good form and mount a late challenge for the title.

Also on Friday night, Connacht will be looking to rewrite over 20 years of history and claim a success against third-placed Munster who, with a game in hand over the leaders, are still in the running for two trophies this season - the Magners League and Heineken Cup.

Friday's third game will see the Ospreys and Ulster meeting for the fourth time this season. An Ulster victory will make it honours shared and keep them clear of the bottom of the table.

Finally, in Wales on Sunday, victory could see the Newport Gwent Dragons overtake their visitors, Glasgow Warriors, and, depending on results elsewhere, further their European ambitions by elevating them to be the third-placed Welsh team.

Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt praised the squad's 'immense character' following the 27-24 GUINNESS Series success against Australia. Meanwhile, captain Rory Best reflects on 'an emotional day' as he made his 100th appearance for his country.

Irish Rugby TV brings you a behind the scenes look at Ireland's final GUINNESS Series game against Australia. Joe Schmidt's men marked captain Rory Best's 100th cap with a superb 27-24 victory over the Wallabies.

Saturday's GUINNESS Series clash with Australia marks Michael Kearney's last game as Ireland team manager. We spoke to him about five memorable years in the role. Watch out for a couple of special cameos!

We're ready to create something legendary. A showcase for rugby nations old and new. A tournament that will grow the game globally, promote the values, spirit and ethos of rugby and will capture the world's imagination. #Ireland2023 - Liam Neeson gives voice to Ireland's bid to host Rugby World Cup 2023.

Tickets are now on sale for the first ever Women's November International Series to be held in the UCD Bowl. Kids go free with any adult tickets. Ireland will face world champions England, top ranked Canada and the Black Ferns of New Zealand.

Tournament Director Garrett Tubridy sets the scene for an exciting weekend of rugby at UCD where 16 Women's Sevens teams will battle it out at for one qualifying spot for the Rio Olympics. Tickets are available from www.ticketmaster.ie/sevens.

Tadhg Furlong reflects on a disappointing day for Ireland against South Africa. However, he will take positives from his first Test start and be ready to build for the final match of the series in Port Elizabeth.

Paddy Jackson is preparing for Ireland's second Test against South Africa on Saturday (kick-off 5pm local time/4pm Irish time). The Ulster out-half has been checking out Ellis Park in advance of the match.